Can I apply for citizenship/permanent residence with a criminal record?

When applying for new immigration status, you can expect Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to request a copy of your fingerprints in order to complete a criminal record check through CPIC/ RCMP. Although it is possible CIC has already been made aware of your criminal record, it is in your best interest to complete your Pardon prior to applying for citizenship. It will avoid delays in their processing and the potential of being further questioned or even removed from Canada.

If you have already submitted your citizenship application, Pardons Canada will provide a support letter indicating that an application to remove your criminal record is in process.